Abstract

As online learning opportunities increase, questions must be asked about the quality of teaching and learning that is provided online. Interactivity is a key dterminant of the quality of any learning environment, but it is not a well-defined construct. In this chapter, the authors argue that the quality of interactivity is strongly related to the authenticity of the tasks or activities. Further, it is proposed that the more similar learning tasks are to 'real world' tasks, the more likely they are to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will transfer to real contexts. The chapter provides a description of the underlying theory, research, and development initiatives for this design model, including specific case studies. The theory, research and examples cited are integrated into a model for authentic activities in online courses. The chapter concludes with guidelines for the design of complex authentic activities for online learning, and a prescription for a design research agenda to further research and development in this area.